Stepping into the Gillian Lynne Theatre is like tumbling down a rabbit hole lined with plush moss and the gentle rustling of unseen spirits. The Royal Shakespeare Company’s adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki’s cherished 1988 animated film, My Neighbour Totoro, has returned to the West End, this time with Victoria Chen enchanting audiences as the irrepressible four-year-old Mei. For those familiar with the Studio Ghibli classic, the stage production offers not a mere imitation, but a breathtaking reimagining that captures the film’s tender heart and whimsical soul.
From the moment the iconic opening credits are playfully brought to life with ingenious puppetry, you understand this isn’t just a show; it’s an experience. The story, simple yet profound, follows sisters Satsuki and Mei as they relocate to the Japanese countryside with their father to be closer to their ailing mother. It’s in this new, verdant world that young Mei encounters the enormous, fluffy forest spirit Totoro, and their lives take on a magical hue.
Chen’s portrayal of Mei is nothing short of captivating. She embodies the character’s boundless curiosity and infectious joy with a physicality that feels utterly authentic. As she told Resonate, “Playing Mei allows me to tap into that part of my life again. It’s wonderful to rediscover the world through a child’s eyes – to experience the delight, wonder, curiosity, and joy that we sometimes forget as adults.” Her energy is boundless, her interactions with the fantastical creatures believable, drawing gasps of delight from the audience, both young and old.
The true marvel of this production lies in its puppetry, designed and directed by Basil Twist. Totoro himself is a feat of engineering and artistry, his sheer size and gentle movements eliciting gasps of awe. But it’s not just the titular spirit that impresses. The soot sprites flit and scurry with mischievous charm, the Catbus bounds across the stage with improbable grace, and even the smaller creatures possess a tangible sense of life. As Chen noted, reflecting on the innovative techniques, the way these beings are brought to the stage is part of the show’s enduring appeal.
Tom Pye’s production design is a character in itself. The family’s traditional Japanese house shifts and reconfigures with fluid elegance, while the surrounding countryside blooms and transforms before your very eyes. Jessica Hung Han Yun’s lighting design bathes the stage in hues that evoke both the sun-drenched fields and the moonlit forests, enhancing the story’s emotional landscape.
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Joe Hisaishi’s iconic score, newly orchestrated by Will Stuart and performed live, swells and soars, underscoring every moment of wonder and tenderness. Adding to the sonic richness of the production is Ai Ninomiya, whose voice, particularly in her role as the Singer, is nothing short of amazing, filling the theatre with a haunting beauty that complements the on-stage magic.
While the visual spectacle is undeniable, the heart of My Neighbour Totoro remains in the connection between the sisters. Ami Okumura Jones returns as the steadfast Satsuki, her portrayal grounded and empathetic, providing a beautiful counterpoint to Chen’s effervescent Mei. Their bond feels genuine, their shared adventures all the more affecting because of their believable dynamic.
Chen, reflecting on the importance of this story, told us, “Many of us believe in the importance of community, and we have a strong connection to the environment we live in… We also understand what it means to hold on to family, whether they are physically with us or not.” This sentiment permeates the production, reminding us of the simple joys of childhood, the power of imagination, and the enduring strength of familial love.
Beyond the central performances, the entire ensemble contributes to the show’s magic. Dai Tabuchi brings a quiet strength to the role of the father, while Jacqueline Tate embodies the warmth and wisdom of Granny. The Kazego Puppetry Ensemble deserves special mention for their seamless integration into the world of the play, their skill bringing the fantastical creatures to life with breathtaking artistry.
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For those who cherish the film, this stage adaptation is a must-see. It honors the source material with reverence while embracing the unique possibilities of theatre. And for newcomers to Totoro’s world, prepare to be swept away by a story that, as Chen eloquently put it, allows you to “rediscover the world through a child’s eyes.” This is theatre that nourishes the soul and leaves you with a warm, lingering sense of wonder.
Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience. Book your tickets for My Neighbour Totoro at the Gillian Lynne Theatre today and let the magic transport you.
